Lagos records N50bn transactions from tourism in December

The Lagos State Government says it recorded N50 billion cash transactions from the creative sector in the first three weeks of December.

Mr Steve Ayorinde, the state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, said in a statement yesterday that the peak in entertainment activities and the influx of people from neighboring states and the Diaspora on holiday visits impacted positively on the economy.

“Reports monitoring the current trends show multi-billion naira spending in hotel accommodations across the state. Alcohol and beverage consumption as well as culinary business; visits to resorts, parks, clubs and lounges, live theatre and cinemas; fees for musicians, their handlers and technical staff.

“It also includes ancillary businesses like fashion and clothing, kiddies’ games and toys, specialised taxis and private security guards that all contribute into the tourism and entertainment sectors. What this cash-enabled December has shown is a massive growth in the creative economy sector in Lagos State.

“The entire state is agog, hotels are fully booked from Victoria Island to Ikeja, Epe and Badagry. There is a renewed sense of fun among the citizens and visitors. The volume of entertainment content being created for the pleasure of the citizens and media is unprecedented right from the beginning of the month,” Ayorinde said.

The commissioner said that the ongoing One Lagos Fiesta featuring more than 700 artistes, was also impacting on the pockets and wellbeing of people.